Photo Set

November 25, 2013

As part of President Obama’s commitment to self-determination of tribal nations, Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs Kevin K. Washburn today joined Citizen Potawatomi Nation Chairman John Barrett to formally approve tribal leasing regulations under the HEARTH act that will help spur investment and commercial development on the nation’s trust lands in central Oklahoma.

Chariman John Barrett of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation signs the leasing regulations agreement with Secretary Sally Jewell, Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs Kevin Washburn, US Congressman Tom Cole, and Vice-Chariman Linda Capps of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Photo: Department of the Interior

In her speech at the ceremony Secretary Jewell spoke about the significance of this agreement. “The Citizen Potawatomi Nation now has the authority to decide how it wants to do business on its lands, making it easier for families to do things like buy and build houses or open businesses in the communities where they have lived for generations.” Photo: Department of the Interior

Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs Kevin Washburn also gave a speech at the ceremony. "These initiatives help strengthen self-reliance and secure the well-being of future generations.” Photo: Department of the Interior

Secretary Jewell, Assistant Secretary Washburn, and Congressman Cole received a tour of the Potawatomi National Cultural Heritage Center. Photo: Department of the Interior

Three Bald Eagles at the Potawatomi National Cultural Heritage Center in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Photo: Department of the Interior